How long will it take to walk normally after Achilles tendon surgery?

You should be able to walk with your boot without limping at around 6 to 8 weeks after your surgery. Then, the therapist may have you do: Single leg stands. Normal walking with a 1/2 inch heel raise in your normal shoes.

How long does it take to weight bearing after Achilles surgery?

Surgical repair of an Achilles can usually be performed through a small (3/4”) incision, and requires just 3-4 weeks non-weight bearing and an additional 2-3 weeks in a walking boot.

What is the typical return to play time for an Achilles reconstruction?

The length of time to allow full activity after Achilles tendon repair is generally thought to be four to six months. The 11 months needed to return to play as a professional football player seems considerably longer.

What happens at 6 weeks after Achilles tendon surgery?

You will need to wear a cast or a walking boot for 6 to 12 weeks after surgery. At first, it may be set to keep your foot pointed downward as the tendon heals. You may be able to put weight on your affected leg after a few weeks. But it will be several months before you have complete use of your leg and ankle.

When should I start physical therapy after Achilles surgery?

Slowly increase passive range of motion and stretch on the Achilles after 6 weeks. Proprioception exercises, intrinsic muscle strengthening, PNF patterns for hip and knee (not to Achilles). At 6 weeks, okay to add stationary cycling with heel push only.

Why do my toes hurt after Achilles surgery?

Some degree of swelling of your foot and toes is normal. Because bleeding from the surgical site cannot escape, it typically will travel under the skin to the most “dependent” part of the extremity.

When does physical therapy start after Achilles tendon surgery?

How long does Achilles rupture take to heal?

This may be as soon as 2 to 3 weeks or as long 6 weeks after your injury. With the help of physical therapy, most people can return to normal activity in 4 to 6 months.

How long should I elevate my leg after Achilles surgery?

To reduce swelling and promote comfort, elevation is very helpful. Elevate the foot/ankle above the level of the heart, using several pillows, for at least 14 days after surgery. Do not place pillows directly behind the knee. Elevation for 30 minutes every 2 hours is a good initial recommendation.

Why is my foot numb after Achilles surgery?

Nerve Injury It is also possible for a nerve to be cut during surgery. And it may be unavoidable. Numbness might develop soon after surgery if swelling disturbs the nerves. This becomes a bigger concern if a patient is placed in a hard cast or tight bandage.

What happens at 6 weeks after ankle surgery?

Six Weeks: X-rays are completed and the joint is evaluated to determine weight-bearing status. If everything looks good, a progressive weight-bearing program is started, which includes transitioning into a normal shoe. Three Months: X-rays are completed.

What is the recovery time for Achilles tendon surgery?

The recovery is gradual to reduce the risk of the achilles tendon rupturing again. Weeks 1-3:  The foot is in a full or half cast.  A follow up visit will be scheduled for 1-3 weeks after injury or surgery  Patients who have had surgery will their cast and stitches removed  A removable walker boot is recommended.

What is an Achilles tendon tendon injury?

The muscle contraction pulls on the tendon that moves the bone. You have several tendons in the body, but the Achilles tendon, which links your calf muscles to the heel bone, is the strongest and largest of them all. This muscle-tendon combo helps you move your feet while walking or running, and the injury to this tendon may need a surgical repair.

How do orthotics help with Achilles tendonitis?

The main job of orthotics is to keep your heel raised so the tendon doesn’t have to work so hard. Many people with Achilles issues are bothered when shoes rub on their ankles. To prevent this, there are other products that cover the back of your ankle or move it away from the shoe.

How long does it take to walk on crutches after ankle surgery?

All your weight will still be on the crutches. By 4 weeks: The boot will be moved gradually to a neutral position (with heel lifts), and in rehab you’ll learn to walk on it correctly. Your physical therapist will move your ankle a bit and start to show you exercises that’ll help strengthen your calves.